Garland, TX – The atmosphere in City Hall was buzzing as the community gathered to witness the transition of leadership from former Mayor Scott LeMay to newly elected Mayor Dylan Hedrick. With hardly any seats to spare, the room was filled with residents, city officials, and supporters, all there to witness former Mayor LeMay’s farewell and welcome Mayor Hedrick.
LeMay delivered a poignant farewell speech that sparked laughter and brought tears to the eyes of quite a few in the room. He reminisced about the first time he submitted his petition to run for Council, recalling how he brought his young daughters along to witness that moment. Now grown, his daughters have pursued careers in city government. He expressed deep appreciation for his wife, crediting her with helping him piece his life back together during challenging times.
LeMay was honored by the President of the Garland Firefighters Association, who presented him with a plaque and a decorated white leather firefighter’s helmet. The white helmet symbolizes the leadership of a fire chief, leading people into danger and back out safely, making it a fitting tribute for LeMay. True to form, he promptly donned the helmet and announced to the audience that he would be wearing his newest achievement everywhere he went.
As part of the meeting’s agenda, several important items were discussed and approved unanimously by the Council. Among the highlights were:
- Proclamations and Recognitions: The Knightly News Award was presented to the Camelot Neighborhood for their second-place win in national community communications, and Tommy Zapata received recognition for his win for the Who’s Who in Neighborhoods USA Award.
- Consent Agenda: The Council approved multiple bids related to engineering services for various infrastructure projects, including the GP&L Oates Road to Lyons Road 138kV Transmission Line Rebuild and the maintenance of Pleasant Valley Road and Elm Grove Road.
- Zoning Changes: The Council approved several ordinances amending the Garland Development Code, including zoning changes for Urban Residential and Urban Business Districts.
- Garland Youth Council Appointee Selection: Amendments were made to increase the number of appointees each City Council member can select for the Garland Youth Council.
- Certificates of Obligation: A resolution was approved to publish the intention to issue Certificates of Obligation to fund capital projects.
- Soccer Complex: The Council approved an 8 to 1 vote, with Councilmember Dutton dissenting, on a term sheet for the lease of a multi-use soccer field complex. The Council authorized the City Manager to negotiate and the Mayor to execute a lease agreement consistent with the terms discussed at a previous Work Session.
- Parks & Recreation Advisory Board: Councilmember Kris Beard appointed Kay Moore to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, and the council unanimously approved her appointment.
In an emotional ceremony, the Council conducted the swearing-in of Mayor Dylan Hedrick, marking the beginning of his term. The transition was met with a mix of hope and enthusiasm from the community, eager to see what new leadership would bring.
Before adjourning, citizens were given the opportunity to voice their concerns during public comments. A few topics arose, including the results of the election and the transition from LeMay to Hedrick, as well as issues affecting retired Garland firefighters regarding healthcare benefits and the ongoing threat to DART funding.
